Toileting - being let out.

Why is it that when I'm at work he can hold it quite happily for four-five hours. Overnight he can go for 8-9 hours. But when I'm off and at home he wants to go every 30 minutes!!!

What he does when he wants to be let out is sits by the door and paws it. We then get up, let him out, he goes off and does what he needs to and then comes back in.

Is it an attention thing?

He has done a few random wees in the house lately, due to either swim bladder or too sleepy so I'm nervous about just leaving him but he should be OK for a few hours at 9 months, shouldn't he?

What do ya reckon? Shall I start ignoring it?

Has this always been the case or has it just started to happen?
Becky

Always. Am certain it's attention. He has a routine now that when ever we sit down to dinner he suddenly needs to go out.

We've had to get into the habit of taking him out just before so we know he doesn't need to go.

Then I would gradually leave it longer and longer each time he asks. So first start at 5 mins then let him out then 10 mins after several days and so on.
Becky

Sounds like a good idea, thanks.

Interestingly enough he started scratching just before the post. I ignored and he's now wondered back to his bed and curled up asleep ;o)

It is attention then isn't it. Little monkey!

You have to remember that this is a learned behaviour so it could get worse before it starts getting better so be prepared to have a stronger will than him.
Alternatively if you ignore enough times he may quickly get the hint!
In cats it's called a game of 'Off Side' in that they are always the wrong side of the door no matter what lol! (Terry Pratchett there!)
Becky

Can you just leave the door open a bit so he can go out when he pleases?

I have a dog flap - it`s one of the best dog things I`ve ever bought (that and the steam mop!)

Oh yes, they should be sold as a pack lol!
Becky

I thought about getting one of these as only Tilly's head fits through the cat flap! but I worry about burglars getting through plus I wouldn't want her going out at night. Can you lock them?